A Farewell and Heartfelt Thank You from JD Yachts

After 25 extraordinary years, JD Yachts will be closing its doors.

This has not been an easy decision—but it’s one we’ve made with deep reflection and immense pride in all that we’ve achieved. We set out to build a company grounded in trust, transparency, and a passion for getting people on the water. We believe we’ve done just that.

To our clients—some of whom have been with us from the very beginning—we owe everything. Your unwavering support and trust shaped our journey. Many of you returned to us time and again for your boating needs, and that loyalty became the foundation of our business. We’re honoured to have helped so many families and individuals realise their dreams of yachting across the UK and the Mediterranean.

To our industry colleagues, tradespeople, and the marinas who welcomed and supported our work—you made this possible. The collaborative spirit and shared commitment to excellence within the marine sector gave JD Yachts its wings. We always sought to drive business back into local trades and infrastructures, and we’re proud to have played a part in sustaining that ecosystem.

To our dedicated team—Toby Hawkins and Isabella O’Leary—thank you for your incredible contribution, professionalism, and commitment to our shared mission. You’ve been integral to our journey and success.

A special thank you to our families for your constant support, patience, and belief in us—especially through the demanding times. JD Yachts has always been about more than just boats; it’s been about people, partnerships, and heart.

The current business climate, especially for SMEs in the marine sector, has become increasingly complex and challenging—particularly in relation to post-Brexit trade regulations and the double taxation of vessels between the UK and EU. These conditions have made it nearly impossible to scale sustainably or operate competitively abroad. We believe it’s important to acknowledge how much the industry has changed—and how vital it is to protect what was once a thriving cornerstone of Britain’s maritime heritage.

As we close this chapter, we do so with enormous gratitude for every client, colleague, and friend we’ve met along the way. The memories, the adventures, and the trust you placed in us will stay with us forever.

Thank you for letting JD Yachts be part of your story. We are proud of the legacy we leave behind.

With heartfelt thanks,

Darren & Justin

This month, the team at JD Yachts were delighted to complete on the sale of the beautiful 2011 Fairline Targa 47 GT ‘Happy Days’ to Mr J, who had travelled over 17,000 kilometres, all the way from Australia to the UK!
 
 
Following her handover at Weymouth Marina earlier in the month, the Targa will now make the 45-day voyage from Southampton Port to the other side of the globe onboard a ship. The team are very much looking forward to seeing photographs of ‘Happy Days’ at her sunny new berth which is just a few minutes from the iconic Sydney Opera House.
 
We wish her new owner many Happy Days Down Under!
 
 
If you are also searching for many Happy Days onboard a Fairline Targa 47 GT, why not take a look at our client’s 2008 model ‘Following the Sun’. With a name such as hers, ‘Following the Sun’ would make the perfect change from the dreary and cold Winter days!
 
With additional specification items including new camper covers, Webasto diesel heating to the cockpit and cabins and an upgraded stereo and fusion speakers, her full listing can be found on our website - https://www.jdyachts.com/brokerage/boats-for-sale/boat/1223-fairline-targa-47-gt
 
 
If you feel like avoiding the rain and Following the Sun instead, please contact the team on +44 (0)1305 766 504 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . We look forward to hearing from you.
 
Authors – Jessica & Isabelle

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